COSLA have welcomed the Scottish Government listening to COSLA and other stakeholders on key concerns relating to plans for a National Care Service.
COSLA’s Health and Social Care Spokesperson, Councillor Paul Kelly, said:
“We are pleased that the Scottish Government are finally listening to COSLA and the wide range of stakeholders who have expressed concerns about the Bill.
“There is no doubt that our care system requires urgent reform and sustainable investment. Care is a fundamental part of our communities, supporting people to live healthy, safe & fulfilling lives.
“Council budgets have been cut by the Scottish Government year-on-year which leaves Councils no other options than to consider cuts to care and other vital local services. This is having an impact on both those accessing and delivering care support and cannot continue. We must urgently see care valued for the critical role it plays in supporting people and society.
“As we move forward, Local Government remains firmly committed to progressing the reforms for which there is broad consensus – including realising enhanced rights and voice for people accessing care support.” [END]
Further information:
The National Care Service Bill was introduced to the Scottish Parliament on June 20th 2022, and allows for the transfer of a range of social care, social work and community health functions from local authorities to a new centralised body under the direction of Scottish Ministers.
On 12th July 2023, Local Government and Scottish Government announced a shared accountability partnership for delivering the National Care Service in an alternative way, with enhanced national strategic direction through the creation of a national NCS Board, but with a continued role for local decision-making and Local Government.
On 27th September 2024, Council Leaders withdrew support for the Scottish Government’s revised National Care Service proposals.
Parliament’s Health Social Care and Sport Committee has sought views on the revised National Care Service Bill. Responses include those from UNISON, Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland, Social Work Scotland, The Promise Scotland, and NHS Board Chief Executives and Chairs. COSLA’s Health and Social Care Spokesperson wrote to Parliament’s Health, Social Care and Sport Committee on 17th September 2024, accompanying COSLA’s full evidence submission on the draft, revised NCS Bill.